1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 4,414 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S80 (312 HP @ 5950 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1052 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2006 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2006 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | C21 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4414 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 312 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5950 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2800 mm |
